Know your numbers!
Did you know that half of all strokes and heart attacks are the result of high blood pressure? Or that 1-in-3 adults in the UK have high blood pressure without realising it?
High blood pressure usually has no symptoms, the first sign of it could be a heart attack or stroke. It can also cause kidney disease, dementia and other illnesses. Lowering your blood pressure with medication and/or lifestyle changes can help protect you and improve your chances of leading a long and healthy life.
When did you last have your blood pressure taken – do you know your numbers? It is estimated that 6 million people in the UK have high blood pressure without realising it.
Know Your Numbers Week is run by Blood Pressure UK (September 6-12th) and is about encouraging people to get their blood pressure checked and to know their numbers - an ideal blood pressure is 120/80.
What are the symptoms of high blood pressure?
Blood pressure isn’t usually something that you feel or notice. High blood pressure usually has no symptoms, that’s why it’s called the silent killer. The only way to find out if you have high blood pressure is to have a blood pressure check.
Who should have a blood pressure check?
All adults should have their blood pressure checked. Blood pressure becomes more common with age, so if you’re over 40 you should have a blood pressure check at least every five years. It’s a good idea to have a blood pressure check if you are younger as well, especially if you are carrying extra weight or have other health problems.
Where can you get a blood pressure check?
You can have your blood pressure checked at your GP surgery, in some pharmacies, in some work places or as part of an NHS health check. It’s quick, easy, free and painless. You can also measure your blood pressure at home using a home monitor.
What causes high blood pressure?
For many people, there may be no one single cause of their high blood pressure, but lifestyle often plays an important role. Being overweight, eating too much salt, which is often hidden in packaged foods, not being active, drinking too much alcohol and smoking can all raise your blood pressure.
The good news is, you can do something about it. LiveWell Dorset has helped many people improve their health and lower their blood pressure - people like Ivan - read his story.
Want to talk to us and see how we could help you lose weight, get active, reduce drinking or quit smoking - all factors that support lower blood pressure?